Tribute to a Storied Irish Broadcaster
Journalist and broadcaster Paddy Clancy has died aged 82, leaving a mark on Irish radio listening habits that spanned decades. He passed away yesterday at Sligo University Hospital, surrounded by his family, in a moment of quiet reflection for a career that brought a steady, thoughtful voice into many Irish homes.
The loss is being felt across Ireland’s media landscape, where Clancy was more than a presenter; he was a trusted companion to readers and listeners who grew up with his distinctive cadence and steady delivery. For three decades, he hosted the popular It Says In The Papers segment on RTÉ Radio 1, a feature that became a staple of the station’s morning rhythm and a reflection of the daily press through the eyes of a seasoned journalist.
It Says In The Papers wasn’t merely a rundown of headlines. Clancy used the slot to offer context and color, weaving together insights from national and regional papers and translating complex media discourse into accessible commentary. His approach blended curiosity with restraint, inviting listeners to consider how reportage shapes public understanding. In the era before skim-friendly social feeds, his segment served as a trusted bridge between print journalism and radio audiences.
A career built on trust, clarity, and civic curiosity
Clancy’s career reflected a broader ethos in Irish journalism: a commitment to clarity, fairness, and the lived realities of readers and viewers. Colleagues recall his meticulous preparation, his patient interviewing style, and his ability to reveal nuance without resorting to sensationalism. Through economic shifts, political changes, and evolving technologies, he remained a steady presence—someone who understood the importance of the free press in a vibrant democracy.
Beyond the radio show, Clancy contributed to Irish journalism through thoughtful commentary and mentorship. He was known for encouraging younger reporters to pursue accuracy, demonstrate empathy in reporting, and maintain professional integrity even under pressure. His colleagues describe him as generous with his time and experience, a veteran broadcaster who never let the spotlight diminish his sense of responsibility to the craft.
Remembering a communicator who valued listeners
In tributes from friends, former colleagues, and listeners, Clancy is remembered for the quiet strength of his voice and the calm certainty with which he approached difficult topics. He carried with him the sense that radio, at its best, can illuminate truth while offering human connection. For many, listening to It Says In The Papers was not just about staying informed; it was about feeling seen and heard as part of a national conversation.
Although we mourn his passing, the legacy of Paddy Clancy endures in the routines of Irish media and in the memories of those who relied on him for reliable, considered journalism. The family has requested privacy as they grieve, and many in the media community have expressed gratitude for a career that elevated public discourse while remaining deeply personal in its approach.
A lasting legacy in Irish media
As RTÉ, colleagues, and audiences reflect on the life and work of Paddy Clancy, the impact of his journalism will continue to resonate. His dedication to presenting the day’s news with balance and clarity remains a benchmark for those who carry the duty of informing the public. While the whistle of the newsroom may have shifted with new platforms and formats, the model he embodied—careful preparation, respect for listeners, and a steadfast commitment to truth—remains central to broadcast journalism in Ireland.
Rest in peace, Paddy Clancy. Your voice will be missed, but your influence on generations of listeners and readers will endure.
